Vlaai – cherry or gooseberry

This is a simple Limburgse vlaai, traditionally made with the fruit that is plentiful in the region. It is utterly beautiful when made well and freshly baked, but can be equally disappointing and dry when bought from the supermarket. There is nowhere to hide with this fruit tart: you cannot cover it in fancy icing, impress with complicated piping techniques or a shiny mirror glaze. If you skimp on quality you will pay the price in lack of flavour and pleasure.

I adore these v